Appearances for shoplifting in the N.S.W. Courts of Petty Sessions increased from 2,367 in 1975 to a peak of 5,792 in 1979, then decreased to 5,370 in 1981. Females have constituted the majority of those convicted in all years, although this percentage has decreased from 60 percent in 1975 to 55 percent in 1981. The age distribution was similar for each year. In 1981, about 25 percent of shoplifters were aged under 25 years, 33 percent between 25-39 years, 30 percent between 40-59 years, and 10 percent were aged 60 years or over. While 50.5 percent of males found guilty of shoplifting were employed, only 12.5 percent of females were. About 20 to 30 percent of those appearing had a previous conviction for some offense. Nearly 90 percent of defendants pleaded guilty to the charge of shoplifting. The percentage of not guilty pleas increased with the age of the defendant. Two-thirds of the appearances resulted in the imposition of a fine. Legal representation increased from 25.3 percent in 1975 to 62.4 percent in 1981. The percentage of not guilty findings increased with the defendant's age. Footnotes are included.